Bhubaneswar, 02 July (H.S.): In a major initiative aimed at strengthening student safety and promoting a healthy academic environment, the Odisha Higher Education Department has directed all government, government-aided, and private colleges in the state to establish a 500-metre drug-free zone around their campuses.

The directive, issued on Thursday in line with the National Narcotics Coordination (NCORD) framework, seeks to curb the availability and influence of alcohol, tobacco, narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and other intoxicants near educational institutions.

As part of the new guidelines, colleges have been instructed to conduct ground-level inspections to identify any outlets or establishments operating within 500 metres of their campuses that sell liquor, tobacco products, narcotics, or other addictive substances.

Institutions have been directed to document any such findings, whether legal or illegal, and include them in their compliance reports. The objective is to ensure strict enforcement of restrictions around educational zones.

To ensure uniform implementation, the Higher Education Department has issued a standard reporting format for all institutions. Colleges have been asked to submit compliance details through the Higher Education Institution Management System (HIMS) portal by July 15.

The department has also instructed Regional Directors of Higher Education to closely monitor compliance and ensure that all institutions adhere to the directive without exception.

Officials said the initiative is aimed at creating a safer, healthier, and addiction-free environment for students across Odisha and strengthening preventive measures against substance abuse in and around campuses.

A circular issued by the department stated that, in accordance with NCORD guidelines and government instructions, no shop or outlet dealing in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, alcohol, tobacco, or other intoxicants should operate within a 500-metre radius of any educational institution.

The move is expected to enhance campus safety and reinforce ongoing efforts to promote drug-free educational spaces in the state.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda